The Community Foundation of Sarasota County has awarded 12 nonprofit organizations with grants totaling more than $320,000 in its third Equity and Access competitive grant cycle. The support will strengthen local, direct service programs focused on populations within Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties that face systemic barriers to health care, education, and human services.

While each proposal centered its own unique cause—from mobile health clinics to STEM experiences for young students living with disabilities—all shared a commitment to strengthen their diversity, equity, and inclusion framework and build a region where all who call it home can thrive. Access to health care and human services emerged as top priorities as a diverse committee of volunteers, staff, board members, and community leaders reviewed each application and made decisions enriched by their own experiences.

“Together can we create a community where everyone has the ability, support, and opportunity to live a better life,” says Kirsten Russell, Vice President of Community Impact at the Community Foundation. “The promise behind each one of these causes is inspiring and gives hope and voice to so many who have historically been left out of the conversation. These grant awards are one step among several that are positively changing this narrative.”

Organizations Supported: Promoting Equity in Health Care and Human Services

• ALSO Youth
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties
• CenterPlace Health
• Children First
• Easterseals Southwest Florida
• Just for Girls
• Mote Marine Laboratory
• Mothers Helping Mothers
• Multicultural Health Institute
• SOAR Learning Center
• The Literacy Council of Sarasota
• We Care Manatee

Since the progam’s inception in 2020, the Equity and Access grant cycles have awarded $775,000 to 33 local nonprofit organizations, each serving one or several populations: geographically underserved neighborhoods, communities of color, immigrants, refugees, English-language learners, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ+ communities, and single mothers, among others.

Looking Ahead

The Equity and Access competitive grant cycle is offered twice a year. Applications for the second cycle will open December 7, 2021. Eligible nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply at cfsarasota.org/nonprofits/grants by the deadline of January 28, 2022.

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is committed to improving the lives of all people. We believe the strength of our community is in its diversity. Together, we strive to address issues and create opportunities so all people can achieve their full potential. To learn more about our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, visit cfsarasota.org/about/diversity-equity-inclusion.